Port Richey was started in 1883 by Missourian Captain A. M. Richey, who homesteaded on an island at the mouth of the Pithlachascotee River. It is located immediately north of New Port Richey.

Port Richey is home to Florida's newest state park. Located on the Gulf of Mexico in western Pasco County, Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park is a recent addition to Florida's State Park system. The park consists of approximately 3400 acres; approximately 600 acres are upland and the other 2800 acres are wetland or submerged and includes four miles of pristine coastline. Canoeing and hiking are two popular activities at this park.